Cost of Living in Zavala County, Texas
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Zavala County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Zavala County, Texas
Zavala County Achieves Rent Affordability Despite Low Incomes
Zavala County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average, but this affordability comes from bargain-basement rents rather than strong earnings. With a median household income of $41,887—44% below the national median—the county offers cheap housing in an economically constrained community.
Below-Average Income, Below-Average Rents
Zavala County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio slightly underperforms Texas's 18.1% state average, driven by the state's lowest median rent of $544. Despite affordable rents, the county's $41,887 median income remains a significant economic constraint for residents.
South Texas's Budget Housing Market
Zavala County's $544 rent is the lowest among these five counties, matching Zapata County's economic profile with similarly modest incomes of $41,887 versus $36,527. Both represent South Texas's tight economic realities, though Zavala County offers slightly better earning potential.
Rents Consume 16% of Income Here
Zavala County renters allocate 15.6% of their $41,887 annual income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 17% on monthly costs of $583. Combined, housing takes roughly 33% of household income—above the comfort threshold but partially offset by genuinely low nominal costs.
Extreme Budget Option for Remote Workers
Zavala County offers Texas's lowest rents and home values ($88,100 median), making it viable only if you bring external income or have secured remote work. Without strong local job markets, this county is best suited for families with stable income sources outside the local economy.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Zavala County
Rent Burden
15.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$977
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Zavala County
Median home value is $88,100. Estimated monthly cost: $703 vs. your max of $977.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.